One of Australia’s brightest stars is spearheading a newly formed group to amplify the voices of people living with diabetes.

Australian sprint champion Lachlan Kennedy, who lives with type 1 diabetes, is an ambassador with the Blue Circle Collective, a group of Australians living with diabetes throughout the nation, launched by şÚÁĎÍř.

Lachie broke the 10-second barrier in the 100m sprint twice at the recent Australian championships in Sydney, becoming the fastest man in Australia. Just 24 hours after running 9.96 seconds in the heats, despite a malfunctioning insulin pump and high glucose levels, Lachie clocked the same time in the final the next day.

He is aiming to break Patrick Johnson’s national record of 9.93 seconds this year and also join the ranks of elite athletes who have run 9.8 seconds.

“I’ve got more in the tank,” Lachie said. “The sky is the limit.”

This week, Lachie took time out of his busy schedule before he leaves for overseas to continue competing and prepare for the Commonwealth Games, to shine a light on the voices of people living with diabetes. şÚÁĎÍř’s Blue Circle Collective is working to ensure that lived experience of diabetes shapes the future of diabetes policy, care, and awareness in Australia.

The Blue Circle Collective brings together Ambassadors, Advocates and Advisers from around Australia who will share their perspectives of living with diabetes, raise awareness and help drive meaningful change in how diabetes is understood, supported and addressed.

şÚÁĎÍř’s Group CEO Justine Cain said the initiative places people living with diabetes at the centre of national conversations about the condition.

“People who live with diabetes every day must help shape, at every level, the decisions that affect their lives,” Ms Cain said.

“The Blue Circle Collective is about elevating real voices and real experiences so that policy makers, health leaders and the wider community better understand both the challenges and the possibilities of living well with diabetes.

“It’s a growing circle of changemakers who are united by a shared commitment to improving outcomes for the millions of Australians affected by diabetes.”

Ms Cain said representatives of the Blue Circle Collective will be the heartbeat of ongoing advocacy and community engagement to support important initiatives to address the increasing impact of diabetes on Australians and accelerate practical solutions and long-term policy.

Lachie is determined to raise awareness about diabetes. This determination underlines what thousands of Australians living with diabetes face every day: the unrelenting, often invisible work it takes to stay well.

“I don’t make a big deal out of my diabetes but I’m aware some people living with type 1 diabetes don’t have access to insulin pumps. My glucose monitor and insulin pump help me to have healthy glucose levels, and there are rarely any issues,” said Lachie.

“Whatever happens, wherever I am, I still have to manage my diabetes. It’s an extra layer of daily decisions in my life and I’m grateful that I have the diabetes technology that I need. I want the same for every Australian living with type 1 diabetes.”

Lachie believes that living with type 1 diabetes has shaped him into the athlete and person he is today.

“I think I live a healthier lifestyle than I would have done if I hadn’t developed type 1 diabetes,” Lachie said.

“It forces you to be aware, to think about your body, to be disciplined. That definitely helps on and off the track.”

Ms Cain said Lachie’s success is a reminder of the strength and resilience within the diabetes community.

“Lachlan Kennedy is evidence that people with type 1 diabetes can do anything,” Ms Cain said.

“Lachie isn’t just an athlete. He’s a brave and resilient champion in every sense of the word.”

Ms Cain said the Blue Circle Collective reflects şÚÁĎÍř’s commitment to ensuring the voices of people living with diabetes are heard, respected, and central to shaping the nation’s response to one of its most urgent health challenges.

To share your interest and learn more about the Blue Circle Collective, please email bluecirclecollective@diabetesaustralia.com.au. Visit Blue Circle Collective.

About şÚÁĎÍř

şÚÁĎÍř is the national peak body supporting people living with, and at risk of, diabetes. We are leading the national response to Australia’s largest health crisis, working in collaboration with people with lived experience, member organisations, peak bodies, health professionals, state-based organisations, researchers and the community. Our work focuses on supporting people with diabetes to live well, providing information, resources, and support services, as well as investing in prevention, and reducing the impact of diabetes on people, health systems and society. We advocate for positive change that will create a healthier future for everyone.         

Two of the Women’s National Basketball League’s (WNBL) best will face off on December 20 to shine a spotlight on young people living with diabetes as Sydney Flames forward, Lara McSpadden, takes on the Townsville Fire’s Lauren Cox.   

Lara McSpadden is a şÚÁĎÍř Blue Circle Collective Ambassador and Lauren Cox is a şÚÁĎÍř Blue Circle Collective Community Advocate.  

Both athletes live with type 1 diabetes, with the match highlighting awareness, early screening, and support for people living with diabetes.   

şÚÁĎÍř’s Group CEO Justine Cain thanked Lara and the Flames for supporting people living with diabetes to attend their home game, saying the basketball stars from both teams are proof that diabetes is no barrier to living a full life, including competing at an elite level.   

“A type 1 diabetes diagnosis can be quite confronting, especially for young people and their families,” she said.   

“But, as Lara and Lauren have proven, people living with diabetes can live active, fulfilling lives and reach their full potential.  

“These athletes are an inspiration and şÚÁĎÍř is grateful to the Sydney Flames for their support of both Lara and Sydney families living with diabetes attending the game.”  

şÚÁĎÍř Ambassador Lara McSpadden said her type 1 diabetes diagnosis came as a shock, but with the right support and management, she was able to continue her basketball journey. 

“There is a lot of extra decision-making, especially when I was first diagnosed, but I was still able to do all the things I did before, with my parents being massive supporters and taking on a lot of the learning,” she said.    

“I’ve been lucky enough that on each team I’ve played for, my teammates and staff have been very supportive, and always making sure it’s an environment where I can get the things I need to make sure my performance is high whilst keeping my levels right.  

“Living with diabetes is a marathon, not a sprint, and if you beat yourself up over little things it’ll be a challenge. Just ride the wave and make small adjustments, and usually positive results will come.” 

Ms Cain said şÚÁĎÍř is asking Australians to be aware of the signs of diabetes, and to understand that support is available for people at risk, newly diagnosed, and those living with diabetes, as well as their families.     

“We’re encouraging everyone to be aware of the four Ts of type 1 diabetes – thirst, thinner, toilet, and tired,” she said.  

“If you recognise these symptoms, contact your health professional for advice as soon as possible.  

“Help and support is available through şÚÁĎÍř and dedicated programs like DiaBuddies, which supports young people living with type 1 diabetes and their families with information, resources, and community. 

“Diabetes YOUnited, our national membership program, is also a fantastic source of information and support for people living with all types of diabetes.” 

The şÚÁĎÍř annual Christmas Appeal is currently underway, raising funds that will provide life changing support for families and young people navigating life with all types of diabetes.   

For more information or to support the Christmas appeal, visit diabetesaustralia.com.au   

Many people approach exercise as a way to lose weight but there are many more benefits to exercise than just weight management.

When you look at exercise holistically there are three distinct categories where exercise provides benefits way beyond weight loss. Here are three areas where exercise makes a big impact.

Wellbeing and mental health

Living with diabetes can be stressful and exhausting at times. But did you know exercise can increase your energy and boost your mood? Recent research has provided evidence of just how beneficial exercise is for improving your mental wellbeing. In some cases, the power of exercise has been shown to be just as effective as medication, and sometimes more so. The best part? Even a single bout of exercise can boost your mood and mental health.

The benefits

• Increased energy
• Increased self-esteem
• Improved mood
• Reduction of anxiety and depression
• Stress relief – this is important because stress hormones can significantly increase blood glucose levels and blood pressure.

Tips:

• Look out for group exercise programs, involving a social component to your exercise can make it more enjoyable, improve your self-esteem, and make it less daunting.
• Exercise outdoors or listen to your favourite music while exercising.
• Exercise with a friend who makes you laugh or makes you feel good about yourself.

Your heart

Exercise does wonders for your heart. When you exercise your heart adapts to the increased demands placed on it, making it stronger and more efficient.

The benefits

• Improved blood pressure and health of your blood vessels.
• Increased blood flow to the heart and the rest of your body. Efficient blood flow means more oxygen and nutrients can reach your organs.
• Reduces your risk of developing heart-related conditions.
• Can alleviate symptoms associated with cardiac conditions, such as chest pain (angina).
• Increases the muscle size and strength of your heart.

Tips:

• Change the intensity of your aerobic exercise throughout the week – one day you may choose a hilly path to walk up for 5-10 minutes, on another day you could perform a longer brisk walk for 30-60 minutes.
• Break up your activity into smaller, more frequent bouts throughout the week. This can help you build a routine and increase movement in your day.
• Include strength exercises into your exercise routine.
• Where possible take the stairs instead of the lift.
• Alternate between different paces when you’re walking.

Your brain

A lack of physical activity is one of the risk factors associated with developing Alzheimer’s disease. As you age, it is very common for physical activity levels to decrease but if you continue to exercise, your brain will benefit from increased blood flow and a reduction of stress and inflammatory hormones circulating your body. Essentially, you are continually working on your brain’s ability to stimulate your muscles to keep up with the exercise demand.

The benefits:

• Maintains the size of the hippocampus (the part of the brain responsible for your memory and ability to think).
• Increases your heart rate which means increased oxygen and nutrients to the brain.
• Improves sleep which helps keep your brain healthy.
• Promotes neuroplasticity – increasing your brain’s ability to form new nerve connections, and improving its efficiency to perform different tasks.

Tips:

• Try something new. Research has shown that if you can combine exercise with a new skill, you will be beneficially maintaining the size of the hippocampus. Grandchildren can be a great source for improving your brain health because they have numerous games in their memory bank, some of which might be new to you. Trying a new game will not only act as a form of exercise but will involve concentration to ensure you are performing the game or skill correctly.
• Choose an exercise that will make you think. For example, take up dance lessons that involve learning new steps.

Exercise is great for your wellbeing, your heart, and your brain. Whatever your age, there’s strong scientific evidence that being physically active can help you lead a healthier and happier life – while also targeting your blood glucose levels. A win, win

The Queensland Government has extended funding for the state’s flagship chronic disease prevention program, My health for life, for another two years, ensuring ongoing delivery of health support for Queenslanders at risk of type 2 diabetes and other conditions.

Funded through Health and Wellbeing Queensland, My health for life is a free, evidence-based initiative empowering thousands of Queenslanders to live longer, healthier lives.

şÚÁĎÍř Group CEO Justine Cain said the funding extension would have a positive impact on the health of Queenslanders.

“Since its launch, more than 33,000 Queenslanders have taken part in health coaching and group sessions, with impressive results: two-thirds have reduced their waist circumference, and about half are drinking less alcohol and exercising more regularly.”

“This is a vital program that is helping to tackle the root causes of chronic conditions before they take hold,” Ms Cain said.

“Prevention is one of the smartest investments we can make – for our health, for our economy, and for the future sustainability of our health system. Programs like My Health for Life not only change lives, they also save lives.”

“With more than 300 Australians diagnosed with diabetes every day, and many more at risk, we urgently need to scale up our prevention effort.”

My health for life is delivered through a collaborative partnership, led by şÚÁĎÍř. The program is delivered through flexible, supportive formats, including group sessions, one-on-one coaching, online modules, and culturally tailored services, at no cost to participants. Health and Wellbeing Queensland was established in 2019 as a statutory body focused on improving population health and reducing inequities across the state.

şÚÁĎÍř Group Executive of Preventative Health, Rowan Clifford, said the funding extension was an endorsement of the program’s success and the ongoing need for targeted, community-based prevention.

“My health for life is all about helping Queenslanders take small, achievable steps toward better health. Whether it’s walking more, eating better, drinking less, or quitting smoking, our qualified health coaches are there every step of the way,” Mr Clifford said.

“This program is reaching people where they live, from cities to regions and in culturally and linguistically diverse communities. We’re proud of the difference we’ve made, and we’re excited to keep building healthier futures together.”

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Take the First Step Today

Visit and complete a free 5-minute health check to understand your risk of developing a chronic disease like type 2 diabetes. You don’t need to change everything at once. Choose one small change and let My Health for Life support you every step of the way.

About şÚÁĎÍř

şÚÁĎÍř is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, state-based diabetes organisations, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au or email media@diabetesaustralia.com.au

When we talk about exercise or increasing physical activity, the focus is often on doing more: more steps, more time, more intensity. But rest and recovery are just as important, especially for people living with diabetes.

Rest isn’t just about putting your feet up. It’s a vital part of any exercise plan, helping your body to recover, rebuild, and return stronger, physically, mentally, and metabolically. In this article, we’ll explore why rest is so important, how it supports diabetes management, and how to know when your body (or blood glucose levels) are telling you to take a break.

Why rest matters

When you exercise, especially at moderate to high intensity, your muscles experience small amounts of damage. This is normal and expected. What you do afterwards, specifically how you rest, determines how well your body repairs and grows stronger.

Below are some key reasons rest should be built into every exercise routine:

Recovery and reduced soreness

Exercise causes micro-tears in your muscle tissue, which is what leads to delayed onset muscle soreness. Rest gives your body time to repair these tears, making your muscles stronger, more efficient, and better able to handle future workouts.

Without enough rest, your muscles don’t fully recover, which can limit progress or even lead to setbacks.

A little soreness is normal, especially when starting something new or increasing intensity. But if it feels excessive or lingers for days, you may be overdoing it. Intense or prolonged activity can cause blood glucose fluctuations. It’s important to keep an eye on your levels.

Preventing fatigue and overtraining

Exercise uses glucose for energy. Your muscles pull glucose from the bloodstream and from stored sources in your liver and muscles. This is one reason regular activity can help improve your HbA1c and day-to-day blood glucose levels.

But overdoing it can mean:

• Your energy levels plummet
• Workouts may start to feel harder
• Your performance may plateau or decline

Regular rest ensures your body has time to rebuild energy stores and adapt to training. If you skip rest, you may find your blood glucose harder to manage, especially if stress hormones like cortisol increase because of overtraining or poor sleep.

Lower injury risk

Rest also protects you from injury. Without it, your muscles, joints, and connective tissues don’t have time to recover from repetitive strain. This can lead to overuse injuries, especially if soreness is ignored or exercises are performed with poor technique due to tiredness.

Tip: Gentle movement such as walking, stretching, or swimming, can help with recovery and may be better than complete inactivity.

Improved mental focus and motivation

Managing diabetes already requires focus and discipline. Add a structured exercise routine on top of that, and it’s no surprise that mental fatigue can creep in. Without proper rest, you may lose motivation, feel overwhelmed, or even start skipping sessions.

Taking time to reset mentally can help you maintain your exercise routine and keep your diabetes self-care on track.

When do you need a rest day?

Listen to your body, and your blood glucose levels. Signs you might need a break include:

• Persistent muscle soreness
• Low energy or sluggishness during workouts
• Mood changes or irritability
• Blood glucose levels that are consistently lower or higher than expected
• Mental burnout or loss of motivation

Taking time off doesn’t mean you’re slacking, it means you’re allowing your body and mind to recharge.

How often should you rest?

It depends on what kind of exercise you’re doing:

• Light activity, such as walking – can usually be done daily without rest.
• Moderate to vigorous aerobic activity – schedule a rest day every few days.
• Resistance training (full body) – take at least one day off between sessions.
• Split routines (e.g. upper/lower body) – aim for a rest day every three days.
• Feeling mentally flat or physically tired? – it’s okay to take a break and return tomorrow.

The takeaway

Rest is not optional, it’s essential, particularly when managing diabetes. It helps your body recover, your mind stay focused, and your blood glucose levels stay more stable. When balanced with regular physical activity, rest helps you get the most from your movement, without burning out.

If you’d like to talk more about how to build recovery into your exercise routine, get in touch with one of our accredited exercise physiologists via the NDSS Helpline: 1800 637 700.

Jonathon Fermanis, Accredited Exercise Physiologist

In an awe-inspiring moment for Australian sport and the diabetes community, 21-year-old Brisbane sprinter Lachlan Kennedy is the second Australian in history to run 100 metres in under 10 seconds – all while managing the demands of type 1 diabetes.

Lachie’s extraordinary performance in Nairobi on May 31 not only made global headlines but also sends a powerful message this National Diabetes Week: people with diabetes can do anything.

Diagnosed at age 15, Lachie lives with type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune condition that requires constant monitoring and management. Preparing for a six-week international racing tour across Africa, Europe and the US, he carried not just his competition gear, but also a full suite of life-saving diabetes technology including blood test strips, insulin pump supplies, back up insulin pens, a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and sensors, as well as insulin and treatments for low blood glucose levels.

And when things didn’t go to plan, Lachie did what he always does: kept his cool and did the best he could with what he had.

Two days before the prestigious Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, on July 5, Lachie’s last blood glucose sensor stopped working. He reverted to old-school finger prick testing, while nursing a hairline stress fracture to his back, competing against the fastest sprinters in the world. His determination underlines what thousands of Australians living with diabetes face every day: the unrelenting, often invisible work it takes to stay well.

“I don’t want to make a big deal out of it. My continuous glucose monitor and my insulin pump help me to have healthy glucose levels, and there are rarely any issues,” said Lachie.

“It was just frustrating and annoying that I was already dealing with an injury and I had this extra diabetes stuff to deal with too. Whatever happens though, whatever race I’m competing in, I still have to manage my type 1 diabetes.”

şÚÁĎÍř Group CEO Justine Cain said Lachie’s story is a reminder of the strength and resilience within the diabetes community.

“Lachlan Kennedy is evidence that people with type 1 diabetes can do anything,” Ms Cain said.

“This National Diabetes Week we’re highlighting the importance of preventing diabetes complications. Affordable access to technology like insulin pumps and CGMs is a critical part of that.

“Lachlan isn’t just an athlete. He’s a champion and an inspiration for young Australians with type 1 diabetes.”

With more than 141,000 Australians living with type 1 diabetes, Lachlan’s journey matters. People living with diabetes make around 180 extra health decisions every day just to stay safe. For many, access to life-changing technology is limited by cost.

Lachie believes that living with type 1 diabetes has shaped him into the athlete and person he is today.

“I think I live a healthier lifestyle than I would have done if I hadn’t developed type 1 diabetes,” Lachie said.

“It forces you to be aware, to think about your body, to be disciplined. That definitely helps on and off the track.”

This National Diabetes Week, şÚÁĎÍř is continuing to call for expanded government subsidies for insulin pumps for people living with type 1 diabetes – particularly those under 21, health care card holders, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The cost of all types of diabetes to the Australian health system is now estimated at over $9.1 billion each year, with many complications preventable through better support and early intervention.

“If we can prevent complications, we don’t just save lives. We reduce hospitalisations, we protect physical and mental health, and we ease pressure on our health system,” Ms Cain said.

Lachie’s success on the world stage shows what’s possible with the right support. For young people newly diagnosed with diabetes, his message is simple:

“Don’t ever think diabetes will stop you. Put yourself in the best position you can, mentally and physically, and you can do anything.”

About şÚÁĎÍř

şÚÁĎÍř is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, state-based organisations, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

Type 2 diabetes is one of the most pressing health issues facing Australia today. An Australian is diagnosed every five minutes, and over 1.3 million people are currently living with the condition.

In the past 10 years rates of type 2 diabetes in young people have grown exponentially. The number of people diagnosed with diabetes in their 20s and 30s has increased by 44%, and diabetes diagnoses before the age of 20 have risen by 17%.

While genetics and other risk factors contribute, up to 58% of type 2 diabetes cases are thought to be preventable, making public education and lifestyle support more critical than ever.

As part of National Diabetes Week 2025, şÚÁĎÍř is calling for urgent national action to prevent type 2 diabetes and its devastating complications. With the health system facing over $9 billion in annual diabetes-related costs, the need for prevention has never been greater.

The rising cost of inaction

Diabetes is estimated to cost the Australian health system more than $9.1 billion every year. That’s almost three times more than previous estimates. If even half of this burden could be avoided, the savings would be enough to fund the annual salary of 45,000 nurses.

The personal toll is also immense. Type 2 diabetes increases the risk of heart attacks and stroke by up to four times. It is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults, kidney failure, and amputations, many of which are preventable with early intervention and good care.

For people living with diabetes, preventing or delaying complications is a 24/7 job. It requires the monitoring of blood glucose levels and blood pressure, keeping cholesterol low, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and a balanced diet. It also requires the support of a team of health professionals providing expert advice.

Without action, 3.6 million Australians could be living with diabetes by 2050, putting unsustainable pressure on individuals, communities, and the health system.

Prevention: What’s needed?

şÚÁĎÍř has long advocated for a national prevention strategy and continues to call on the Federal Government to invest in a coordinated approach. Raising awareness of type 2 diabetes prevention through public education campaigns and initiatives to encourage healthy lifestyles is long overdue. We are calling for better food labelling to make healthy choices easier; school-based programs to educate children and families early; and culturally sensitive support for high-risk communities.

During National Diabetes Week 2025 we are encouraging Australians to get a health check to understand their risk of type 2 diabetes. The free AusDRisk health assessment tool is available online and can assess an individual’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes over the next five years.

Australia has seen successful prevention campaigns for other health conditions, including melanoma and breast cancer, so we know this can work.

Preventing type 2 diabetes requires more than individual willpower. It needs environments that support healthy choices, and a society that understands diabetes is not caused by personal failure but is shaped by complex factors including genetics, access to healthy food, and opportunity for physical activity.

Addressing stigma and supporting people at risk

Misinformation about diabetes can cause shame and isolation. Stigma often prevents people from seeking help or making changes. It’s critical to challenge the idea that type 2 diabetes is simply a result of poor choices. Genetics, cultural background, and social determinants of health all play a role.

Everyone deserves support, not blame. That starts with improving awareness and ensuring people can access help early.

The role of allied health in prevention

, one of Australia’s largest networks of allied health providers, plays a valuable role in supporting prevention and early intervention.

• Exercise physiologists create tailored movement plans to improve fitness and reduce insulin resistance.
• Podiatrists help prevent diabetes-related foot complications and keep people active.
• Physiotherapists support safe physical activity and address mobility barriers that can limit exercise.
• Dietitians and other health professionals across Healthia’s clinics support long-term behaviour change through evidence-based care.

With over 400 clinics nationwide, Healthia’s services are accessible in both metropolitan and regional areas, helping more Australians take practical steps toward better health.

What you can do this National Diabetes Week

• Get a health check. Visit your local for a free SiSU machine health check or take the AusDRisk online quiz to learn your five-year risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• Talk to your GP or health professional about ways to support your health and prevent complications.
• Support calls for national action on diabetes prevention, better food labelling, and public education.

Preventing type 2 diabetes isn’t just a health priority, it’s an economic and social one. By acting now, we can reduce the toll of diabetes on millions of Australians and ensure a healthier future for the next generation.

Australians are being offered free health checks at their local Priceline Pharmacy this National Diabetes Week (13–19 July) in an effort to strengthen efforts to prevent type 2 diabetes.

Conducted on a digital health station, checks are free, self-service, and take as little as five minutes to complete. The Health Stations can be found in over 300 participating Priceline Pharmacies, giving people a quick and easy way to check their type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular and metabolic health risks, with instant results. şÚÁĎÍř Group CEO Justine Cain said the initiative has the potential to save thousands of lives and ease growing pressure on the health system.

“There are 1.3 million Australians living with type 2 diabetes and another 500,000 living with silent, undiagnosed type 2 diabetes,” Ms Cain said.

“Worryingly, there are another 2 million people who are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A simple, free check could be the difference between early detection and a life-threatening diabetes complication like a heart attack or stroke.

“In addition to the role that genetics and family history play in diabetes, we know that up to 58 per cent of type 2 diabetes cases can be prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes. A health check is a practical way to help Australians understand their risk and improve their health.

“This National Diabetes Week we want to highlight the importance of prevention and early diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and the prevention of complications from all types of diabetes.

“These are critically important to protect the health of Australians now and into the future.”

Priceline Pharmacy National Pharmacy Support Manager, Mel Gannon, said: “Pharmacies are one of the most accessible healthcare touchpoints in Australia, and at Priceline Pharmacy, we take that responsibility seriously. Early intervention saves lives, and it all starts with knowing your numbers.”

Lee Chinprahust, 34, is a physically active security analyst from Sydney. Five years ago, he started feeling unusually tired so visited his GP. It was a simple step that had a profound impact.

A routine blood test confirmed Lee had type 2 diabetes. Further checks revealed high blood pressure and high cholesterol, warning signs that often go unnoticed. “I wasn’t expecting it,” Lee said. “But catching it early gave me the chance to take control before things became more serious.”

Now 34, Lee has become a strong advocate for prevention and early intervention. He is managing his condition with metformin, a healthy diet, and regular exercise. “It’s all about the choices you make once you know what you’re dealing with,” he says. “But first, you need to know.”

Pictured above at the press conference to launch National Diabetes Week 2025 are Mel Gannon, Justine Cain, and Lee Chinprahust at the Priceline World Square Pharmacy in Sydney.

The Priceline Health Stations can identify risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes, such as high blood pressure, quickly and easily.

The health check initiative comes after şÚÁĎÍř reported updated economic modelling showing all types of diabetes are now costing the health system an estimated $9.1 billion annually, almost three times higher than previously reported.

New analysis by şÚÁĎÍř, using updated prevalence data and the latest international evidence, highlights the true scale of the type 2 diabetes crisis.

“Type 2 diabetes is one of the biggest health challenges facing Australia. Every 8 minutes, someone is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. If we don’t act now, up to 3.2 million Australians could be living with type 2 diabetes by 2050. It’s not all preventable, but where it is we need to take strong action,” Ms Cain said.

“Behind the health costs are millions of Australians facing serious complications like stroke, heart disease and vision loss. We must do more to prevent those complications as much as possible.”

Ms Cain said while Australia has made progress in other areas of disease prevention, such as breast cancer and melanoma, diabetes has not received the same level of national attention.

“Australia is lagging behind other countries when it comes to type 2 diabetes prevention. We need a strong, coordinated public health response,” she said.

“That includes education campaigns, better food labelling, school-based initiatives and improved access to prevention and early intervention services.

şÚÁĎÍř is calling on governments to act urgently, with increased investment in community-based prevention and awareness programs to ease the growing burden on Australia’s health system.

“Free checks are an important first step, but they must be part of a bigger, long-term strategy to tackle this national type 2 diabetes epidemic.”

To find your nearest Priceline Pharmacy Health Station, visit:
 

About şÚÁĎÍř

şÚÁĎÍř is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, state-based diabetes organisations, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

Australia’s peak diabetes organisations have welcomed new recommendations from the Australasian Diabetes in Pregnancy Society (ADIPS) that update the way gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is diagnosed, saying the changes will help better target care to the women who need it most.

The updated guidelines, published today in the Medical Journal of Australia, recommend higher blood glucose thresholds for diagnosing GDM and introduce more tailored screening for women with known risk factors early in pregnancy. said these evidence-based changes aim to ensure women and their babies receive appropriate care without over-medicalising pregnancies where the risk of complications is low.

şÚÁĎÍř, the and the joins with ADIPS in supporting the changes, as have other peak health bodies, reflecting broad consensus across diabetes management. 

For the first time, Australia’s leading experts in GDM including general practitioners, obstetricians, midwives, diabetes clinicians and pathologists, have united behind a national approach to improve the consistency and clarity of GDM diagnosis. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in maternal health and diabetes care.

More than 280,000 women give birth in Australia each year, and GDM affects nearly one in five pregnancies. Appropriate diagnosis and treatment are critical in reducing the risk of complications during pregnancy and birth, and in helping women avoid long-term health issues such as type 2 diabetes.

It’s critically important that every woman who develops GDM is identified and supported with the care she needs. These updated guidelines will facilitate that goal by focusing healthcare resources where they can make the biggest difference on women and babies most at risk.

The recommendations follow a decade of evolving research and reflect the lived experience of women who have had GDM, alongside the clinical insights of the country’s leading diabetes and maternity care professionals.

Implementation of the new recommendations will be rolled out across hospitals and primary care settings over the coming months.

By Hayley Nicholson, Exercise Physiologist, Credentialled Diabetes Educator

As we age, our bone density and muscle mass decreases, which increases the risk of falls and possible fractures. Falls can have a huge impact on mobility and independence, but there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk. Common causes of falls include tripping over raised obstacles, slipping on wet floors, stumbling on stairs, and falling from ladders.

Reduced muscle strength, impaired balance or gait, poor vision, reduced reaction time and the use of multiple medications can all contribute to the risk of a fall. Inappropriate footwear and other environmental hazards can also have an impact, as can diabetes. Diabetes may cause problems with eyesight and reduce feeling in the feet and legs, particularly when blood glucose levels fluctuate quite a bit. This can make it more difficult to move around safely.

An estimated $2.3 billion is spent annually in Australia on treating injuries due to falls experienced by people aged 65 years and older. However, the good news is that most falls are preventable.

Recommendations

Exercise is a great way to reduce the risk of falls but how much and what type of exercise is best?

Exercise programs that include functional balance and muscle strengthening are the most effective in preventing falls. The exercises should be progressively challenging and of sufficient dose to maximise the benefits of reducing falls. It’s important to note that exercise participation needs to be ongoing, as benefits are lost when short-term programs are ceased.

It is recommended that exercises have a moderate to high intensity challenge to balance. That is, an exercise program should include exercises undertaken while standing or transferring weight (as opposed to seated). If possible, exercises should include a narrow base of support (eg: feet close together) but minimise the need for upper body support. Studies that have included exercises with a high challenge to balance for at least three hours per week were found to reduce falls by 40%.

Putting it into practice

Below are some exercises that could help you improve your balance. Before starting any exercise program however, it is important to get medical clearance from your doctor.

Single leg holds

Stand behind a chair on a flat stable surface. Shift your weight onto one foot and lift the other foot off the ground. Gently rest your hands on the back of the chair of required. Maintain this position for as long as possible (you might start with 10-30 seconds initially). As you become more confident, try holding this position for longer. Switch legs and repeat the exercise.

Tandem stand

Stand next to a wall on a flat stable surface. Stand with one foot directly in front of the other, heel to toe. Try to focus on a fixed point in front of you to maintain your balance. Use the wall for support initially, gradually reducing your support as your balance improves. Hold this position for 10-30 seconds. Switch feet and repeat the exercise.

Calf raises

Stand behind a chair on a flat stable surface. Lift your heels off the ground and slowly lower them back  to the starting position. Count two seconds to rise and two seconds to lower. Use the chair for support initially, gradually reducing your support as your balance improves Repeat 10 times.

Step ups

Step onto a raised platform (step) with one foot, pushing through your heel to lift yourself onto the step. Bring your other foot up so both feet are on the step. Step down with the leading foot, then the other, in a controlled manner back to the starting position. Repeat 10 times leading with each foot.

Sit to stands

Sit on a sturdy chair with your feet shoulder width apart and toes pointing forward. Place your arms across your chest. Lean forward, push through your heels and stand up. Slowly lower yourself back into the chair. Repeat 10 times.

The above exercises can be progressed by increasing the number of repetitions or changing the surface. Alternatively, the exercise can be made easier by utilizing the chair or wall for additional support.

This show some useful exercises for building balance. If you are a beginner take it slowly and do half the number of repetitions of each exercise.

Other tips for preventing falls

In addition to increasing your balance through exercise, it’s also important to create a safe environment in and around your home. This might include ensuring you have adequate lighting, removing trip hazards like floor mats and electrical cords, installing grab rails, reducing clutter and wearing appropriate footwear. It could also be a good opportunity to have your eyes, hearing and feet checked if it’s been a little while since they were assessed. If you have experienced a few falls in the past, remember there are also lots of assistive devices available for extra support, such as walking sticks and wheelie walkers.

Need some assistance?

If you would like to reduce your risk of falls and you’re not sure where to start, you can reach out to your doctor for a referral to an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, under a diabetes care plan. They can assess your capabilities and limitations, review your medical history and formulate an appropriate exercise program tailored to you. If exercise is new to you, this is a great way to build your confidence under supervision so that you can participate safely on your own in the comfort of your own home.

References

Exercise is Medicine website – falls prevention
Tiedeman, A. et.al (2024). Exercise and Sports Science Australia updated position statement on exercise for preventing falls in older people living in the community, Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport,